CCPD Sergeant awarded medal for disarming suicidal individual with a firearm

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Chatham County Police Department Sergeant Bobby Stewart has been awarded with a Medal of Merit for disarming a suicidal individual with a firearm, according to a social media post from the department earlier today, October 16, 2025.

“Sergeant Stewart’s compassion, composure, and quick actions averted a potential tragedy,” the CCPD writes.

It says that, instead of a tragic ending, “the person was able to receive the care they needed.”

Sergeant Stewart’s supervisor says, “Sergeant Stewart’s performance of duty exhibited extraordinary kindness, bravery, and service to the public.”

“We salute and thank Sergeant Stewart for his service on behalf of our Department and our community,” writes the Chatham County Police Department.

In a response to a comment on the social media post, the CCPD also notes that "we are in our ‘awards season’ here at CCPD."

This means, “you’ll be hearing more amazing stories as we present these awards over the next few weeks… there are many great stories to tell!"

If you or someone you know needs immediate help in a crisis, call 911. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 if you want to talk or text with a counselor.

Warning Signs of Suicide

• Talking about wanting to die
• Looking for a way to kill oneself
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious, agitated, or recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Displaying extreme mood swings

What to Do

• Do not leave the person alone
• Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs, or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt
• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Take the person to an emergency room, or seek help from a medical or mental health professional

Who Can Help

• 988 – The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• • Using 988 is free and confidential. The Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a trained listener, call 988. You can call or text 988 or visit www.988lifeline.org to chat with a counselor.
• The Veterans Crisis Line and Military Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, Press 1
• • The Veterans Crisis Line and Military Crisis Line connect veterans and service members in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text.
• Crisis Text Line: 741-741
• • This free text-message service provides 24/7 support to those in crisis. Text 741-741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor right away.